Selebi-Phikwe Entrepreneurs See Tangible Growth Through AWOME Initiative

Selebi-Phikwe Entrepreneurs See Tangible Growth Through AWOME Initiative. Entrepreneurs in Selebi-Phikwe are reporting positive outcomes from the Accelerating Women-Owned Micro-Enterprises (AWOME) programme, with some businesses experiencing improved customer engagement, operational growth, and employment creation.

One such business is Trust Radiator Clinic, owned by Ms. Ketaroma Moshe, who opened the workshop in 2016. Following her participation in AWOME training, Ms. Moshe shared how newly acquired marketing skills contributed to expanding her customer base beyond Selebi-Phikwe, reaching clients from areas like Bobonong.

The AWOME team, including representatives from MYGA (Ministry of Youth, Gender and Culture), conducted a post-training assessment at her premises to evaluate the long-term effects of the programme. Ms. Moshe noted that beyond business skills, the training also strengthened her confidence and vision. She is now considering expanding operations with an additional branch.

The AWOME programme — a partnership between De Beers, UN Women, and the Ministry of Youth, Gender and Culture — aims to uplift women entrepreneurs in Botswana by providing practical training and mentorship. The recent tour in Selebi-Phikwe involved visits to several businesses, with many participants emphasizing how the programme contributed to both their personal and professional development.

Botswana entrepreneurs looking to strengthen their business foundations are encouraged to explore such initiatives, which offer skills training tailored to the realities of running small enterprises in the local economy.